The Niagara Knights men's soccer program (1-1, T1st OCAA Central) earned their first victory of the season, defeating the University of Toronto Mississauga (0-1, 4th OCAA Central) 2-0 on Wednesday night. The hometown Knights carried the play throughout en route to the win.
Defender Andrew Currie (Woodstock) got the night started right for Niagara. The third year Fitness & Health Promotion student potted his first career goal as a Knight in the 13th minute. Currie buried a header from just inside the 18 yard box off a tremendous free kick from midfielder Jordi Amores (Niagara Falls). "Currie's goal was one of the nicest goals we've ever had in our program," said head coach Frank DeChellis. "The delivery, the finish, and the celebration were all memorable."
The Knights would not let up throughout the first half, but were unable to pot another until the 51st minute. Jacob Therrien (Welland) hammered home a volley on the run into the top right corner past the outstretched arms of the UTM keeper to seal the victory for Niagara. In the goal, Fiore Costa (Niagara Falls) recorded a pair of saves to earn the clean sheet in his Knights debut.
DeChellis was happy with the way his team rebounded after a disappointing season opening loss on September 9th. "We started with a more productive attitude tonight. Our leaders took over and we need to see that every game." DeChellis singled out the play of Keith Makubuya (St. Catharines), Alex Latham (Welland), and Jordi Amores. "All three took, and gave, a beating last night while challenging for balls and their teammates followed their example throughout the match."
The Knights will now hit the road for their next two contests, visiting the Seneca Sting (0-1, 4th OCAA Central) on Saturday at 7:15pm and the Humber Hawks (1-0, T1st OCAA Central) on Tuesday, September 20th at 6:30pm. Niagara will return home on Sunday, September 25th when they welcome the Sheridan Bruins (1-0, T1st OCAA Central) for an 8pm kick-off at Youngs Sportsplex under the lights.
